Discover the natural beauty of Cherokee National Forest in Tennessee. Hike, fish, camp, and explore the great outdoors.
If you’re looking for an adventure in the great outdoors, Cherokee National Forest is the perfect destination. With over 650,000 acres of pristine wilderness to explore, there’s no shortage of things to do in this natural wonderland. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual nature lover, you’ll find something to love in this beautiful corner of Tennessee. From breathtaking vistas to tranquil waterfalls, there’s no shortage of stunning scenery to take in. So why not pack up your hiking boots and head out into the great unknown? Here are just a few of the incredible things you can do in the Cherokee National Forest.
Welcome to the Cherokee National Forest!
The Cherokee National Forest is a vast and beautiful expanse of wilderness located in eastern Tennessee. Covering over 600,000 acres, the forest offers visitors a wealth of opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, fishing, camping, and more. Whether you’re looking for a quiet getaway or an action-packed adventure, there’s something for everyone in the Cherokee National Forest.
Explore the Trails
One of the best things to do in the Cherokee National Forest is to explore the many miles of hiking trails. There are trails for hikers of all skill levels, from easy strolls to challenging treks through rugged terrain. Some of the most popular trails include the Appalachian Trail, which runs through the forest for over 70 miles, as well as the Benton MacKaye Trail and the John Muir Trail. No matter which trail you choose, you’re sure to be rewarded with stunning views and the chance to get up close and personal with nature.
Camp Under the Stars
If you’re looking for a true wilderness experience, there’s no better way to do it than by camping in the Cherokee National Forest. With dozens of campgrounds scattered throughout the forest, you’re sure to find the perfect spot to set up your tent or RV. Many of the campgrounds offer amenities like fire rings, picnic tables, and even showers, while others are more primitive and offer a true back-to-nature experience. Either way, you’ll love falling asleep under the stars to the sounds of the forest.
Cast a Line
Fishing is another popular activity in the Cherokee National Forest, with dozens of streams, rivers, and lakes teeming with fish. Whether you’re an experienced angler or just looking to try your hand at fishing for the first time, you’re sure to have a great time casting a line in the forest’s crystal-clear waters. Some of the most popular fishing spots include the Tellico River, the Hiwassee River, and the Ocoee River. Just be sure to get the proper fishing license before you start!
Take a Scenic Drive
If you’re looking for a more leisurely way to take in the beauty of the Cherokee National Forest, consider taking a scenic drive. There are several roads that wind their way through the forest, offering stunning views of the mountains, valleys, and forests. The Cherohala Skyway is one of the most popular scenic drives, offering 43 miles of breathtaking views and plenty of pull-off points for photo ops.
Go Horseback Riding
For equestrians, the Cherokee National Forest offers plenty of opportunities to explore the trails on horseback. There are several stables and outfitters in the area that offer guided horseback rides, as well as opportunities for experienced riders to bring their own horses and hit the trails on their own. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just looking to try something new, horseback riding in the Cherokee National Forest is an unforgettable experience.
Take a Dip
On a hot summer day, there’s nothing quite like taking a refreshing dip in one of the many swimming holes in the Cherokee National Forest. Some of the most popular spots include the Bald River Falls, which features a deep swimming hole at the base of the falls, and the Chilhowee Recreation Area, which has a large swimming beach and picnic area.
See the Wildlife
The Cherokee National Forest is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including black bears, whitetail deer, wild turkeys, and more. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a rare species like the red wolf or the Indiana bat. There are several wildlife viewing areas throughout the forest, as well as guided tours and educational programs that offer a chance to learn more about the animals that call the forest home.
Visit the Historic Sites
The Cherokee National Forest is rich in history, with several historic sites and landmarks scattered throughout the area. One of the most popular sites is the Ocoee Whitewater Center, which was built for the 1996 Olympic Games and now serves as a hub for outdoor recreation in the area. Other historic sites include the Tellico Ranger Station, the Coker Creek Village, and the Unicoi Turnpike Trail.
Experience the Fall Colors
In the fall, the Cherokee National Forest explodes with color as the leaves on the trees turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold. There are several scenic drives and hiking trails that offer stunning views of the fall foliage, including the Cherohala Skyway and the Bald River Falls Trail. Be sure to bring your camera, as the fall colors in the Cherokee National Forest are truly breathtaking.
Conclusion
Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or just looking for a peaceful retreat, the Cherokee National Forest has something to offer everyone. From hiking and camping to fishing and horseback riding, there’s no shortage of things to do in this beautiful wilderness area. So why not plan your visit today and experience all the wonders of the Cherokee National Forest for yourself?
Cherokee National Forest is a natural paradise with endless opportunities for adventure and exploration. If you’re a thrill-seeker, exploring the Ocoee River should be at the top of your list. The rapids are some of the best in the country and will satisfy even the most daring adrenaline junkies. For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, hitting the trails is a perfect way to experience the beauty of the forest. With over 600 miles of trails, you can choose from easy walks to challenging mountain treks. If hiking isn’t your thing, take a scenic drive through the forest and enjoy stunning vistas from the comfort of your car.Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the abundance of lakes, rivers, and streams in the area. Fly-fishing for trout in mountain streams or casting a line into one of the region’s many lakes is a relaxing and rewarding experience. For a change of scenery, visit Roan Mountain State Park just outside the boundaries of the forest. The park offers picnic areas, camping sites, a beautiful swimming pool, and hiking trails that take visitors through stunning rhododendron gardens and up to the highest peak in the area.Bird-watchers will be delighted by the diverse range of bird species in Cherokee National Forest. Grab your binoculars and head out on one of the forest’s many trails to spot everything from songbirds to raptors. Camping is another great way to experience the natural beauty of the forest. With numerous well-maintained sites throughout the forest, you can pitch a tent or park your RV and enjoy amenities like fire pits, picnic tables, and restroom facilities.If you’re interested in wildlife viewing, head to Cades Cove just outside the forest. The historic settlement is home to a large herd of elk, making it a prime destination for elk watching. For a different perspective, take a horseback riding tour or bring your own horse and explore the forest’s beauty from a unique vantage point. Finally, don’t miss the opportunity to learn about Cherokee culture. Visit museums and cultural centers throughout the region to discover the history, traditions, and art of the Cherokee people who have called this area home for centuries. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Cherokee National Forest has something for everyone to enjoy.
Imagine yourself standing in the middle of Cherokee National Forest, surrounded by towering trees that cast dappled shadows on the forest floor. The sound of a nearby stream echoes through the woods, and the fresh scent of pine fills your lungs. As you look around, it’s clear that there are countless things to do in this stunning natural wonderland.
Here are just a few of the many activities you can enjoy in Cherokee National Forest:
1. Hiking and Backpacking
With over 800 miles of trails, Cherokee National Forest is a hiker’s paradise. Whether you’re looking for a casual stroll or a multi-day backpacking adventure, there’s a trail for you. Some popular hikes include the Appalachian Trail section that runs through the forest, the Bald River Falls Trail, and the Roan Mountain Trail.
2. Fishing
Cherokee National Forest is home to a variety of fish species, including trout, bass, and catfish. You can fish in one of the many streams or rivers that run through the forest or head to one of the many lakes, such as Watauga Lake or South Holston Lake.
3. Camping
There are plenty of campsites throughout Cherokee National Forest, ranging from primitive sites to RV-friendly spots. Many of the campsites are located near hiking trails and fishing spots, making it easy to enjoy all the forest has to offer.
4. Wildlife Viewing
Cherokee National Forest is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including black bears, deer, elk, and birds of prey. Keep your eyes peeled while you’re out hiking or camping, and you might just spot some of these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
5. Scenic Drives
If you’re not up for hiking or camping, you can still enjoy the beauty of Cherokee National Forest by taking a scenic drive. Some popular routes include the Cherohala Skyway, which offers stunning views of the forest and nearby mountains, and the Roan Mountain Drive, which winds through lush forests and past picturesque waterfalls.
No matter how you choose to spend your time in Cherokee National Forest, you’re sure to be surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. So why not plan a trip today and experience it for yourself?
As our journey comes to a close, we hope that this article has inspired you to explore the wonders of Cherokee National Forest. There is so much to see and do in this beautiful area, from hiking and biking to fishing and camping. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or just looking for a weekend getaway, there’s something for everyone in this breathtaking part of Tennessee.
One of the highlights of the Cherokee National Forest is undoubtedly the Appalachian Trail. This iconic trail is over 2,000 miles long and stretches all the way from Georgia to Maine. While hiking the entire trail may be a bit of a daunting task, there are plenty of shorter hikes that offer stunning views and a taste of the Appalachian Trail experience. From the Roan Highlands to Max Patch, there are many incredible spots along the trail that are worth exploring.
If you’re looking for a more relaxed way to enjoy the beauty of the forest, consider taking a scenic drive. The Cherohala Skyway is a must-see for anyone visiting the area. This 43-mile stretch of road winds through the mountains and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Along the way, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the scenery, whether it’s at a scenic overlook or a picnic area.
Finally, no trip to the Cherokee National Forest would be complete without a visit to one of the many waterfalls in the area. From the stunning Laurel Falls to the picturesque Bald River Falls, there are many incredible waterfalls to discover. Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike or an easy stroll, there’s a waterfall for every skill level.
We hope that this article has given you a taste of all the amazing things to do in the Cherokee National Forest. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, this beautiful area has something for everyone. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!
People often ask about the things to do in Cherokee National Forest. Here are some frequently asked questions and their answers:
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What are the best activities to do in Cherokee National Forest?
There are plenty of activities to do in Cherokee National Forest, such as hiking, fishing, camping, kayaking, swimming, and bird watching. Visitors can also enjoy scenic drives, wildlife viewing, and photography.
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What are the best hiking trails in Cherokee National Forest?
There are several hiking trails in Cherokee National Forest, ranging from easy to difficult. Some of the popular ones include the Appalachian Trail, Bald River Falls Trail, Benton MacKaye Trail, and Iron Mountain Trail.
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Can you fish in Cherokee National Forest?
Yes, fishing is allowed in Cherokee National Forest. Visitors can fish for trout, bass, catfish, and other species in the streams, rivers, and lakes within the forest. A valid fishing license is required.
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Is camping allowed in Cherokee National Forest?
Yes, camping is allowed in Cherokee National Forest. There are several campgrounds, both primitive and developed, that offer a range of amenities such as restrooms, showers, picnic tables, and fire pits. Reservations are recommended.
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What are the best waterfalls to see in Cherokee National Forest?
Cherokee National Forest is home to many beautiful waterfalls. Some of the popular ones include Abrams Falls, Bald River Falls, Benton Falls, and Laurel Falls. Visitors can also explore lesser-known waterfalls such as Mouse Creek Falls and Rainbow Falls.
Visitors to Cherokee National Forest can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities and natural beauty. Whether you are looking for adventure or relaxation, there is something for everyone in this scenic forest.